poof

1 of 2

interjection

ˈpüf How to pronounce poof (audio) ˈpu̇f How to pronounce poof (audio)
—used to express disdain or dismissal or to suggest instantaneous occurrence

poof

2 of 2

noun

ˈpüv How to pronounce poof (audio) ˈpu̇v How to pronounce poof (audio)
variants or less commonly poove
plural poofs also pooves
British, offensive
: a gay man
—used as a term of abuse and disparagement

Word History

Etymology

Noun

perhaps alteration of puff entry 2

First Known Use

Interjection

1824, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of poof was in 1824

Dictionary Entries Near poof

pooer

poof

poofter

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Poof.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poof. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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